8x57 for my Stevens 200

[jeffman3]

I am considering a re-build project for my Stevens 200 25-06. (current barrel has issues and needs to be replaced) I also have a couple hundred 8x57 new rem brass. My thought was to re barrel my 200 with a custom cut 8x57 ER Shaw barrel. (I like to be about 10-15 degrees off the norm) Has anybody done anything like this. I'm looking to build a deer rifle with ~ moderate recoil [read non-heavy magnum], that I can "load up" for my someday Elk hunt.....Yes, 30-06 is the obvious choice, but I want something few others have done, I have always danced to the beat of a slightly different drum.

Thank you for your input on this decision.

jeffman3

[jdlouie]

Go for it. The 8x57 is an underrated caliber that will do anything the 30-06 will do.

[jeffman3]

Go for it. The 8x57 is an underrated caliber that will do anything the 30-06 will do.

Do I understand that you intended to say, that the 8x57 "chambering" is underrated, or the 8mm "caliber" is underrated?????

There are several more powerful 8mm chamberings,,,,,, but I like the 8x57 chambering, for this build, for this purpose.

[JCalhoun]

I think a deer rifle in 8X57 Mauser would be rather interesting.

[BillPa]

I think a deer rifle in 8X57 Mauser would be rather interesting.

I shot my first three with one. It was my first goat gun.

Bill

[jeffman3]

After contacting ER Shaw, I have decided that this probably isn't going to happen. They told me that I am looking at a 4-6 month lead time on a barrel. :(

This is just to long of a wait for this build. I need to get something together that I can shoot sooner then that.

[Westcliffe01]

I ordered a custom 8x57 select match stainless 26" varmint barrel from Shilen and had it in about 3 months. By contrast, I am still waiting for my 6.5x284 which I ordered and paid for in April, also from Shilen.....

I have a tip for you: Krieger have a few 8mm blanks "surplus" http://www.kriegerbarrels.com/RapidCat/WebPageImages/1246/6885//25-Nov-2013.htm
They are not prefits, but already contoured. If you have a local smith who can chamber, crown and thread, you will be all set... No waiting.

My "new" rifle is really nice to shoot. With the varmint barrel, recoil is low, even shooting 200gr HPBT at 2700fps or thereabouts. The 1999 Yugo sniper ammo is running 2500fps and about $0.50/round. I have not even started serious load development yet....